Bannerghatta Zoo Park, located within the sprawling Bannerghatta National Park in Bangalore, is home to over 1,500 animals representing more than 100 species, including tigers, lions, elephants, and a variety of reptiles and birds. Each year, the zoo attracts over 1.2 million visitors who come to witness the diverse wildlife in an environment that mirrors their natural habitats. Known for its commitment to conservation and education, Bannerghatta Zoo offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
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History of Bannerghatta Zoo Park
Established in 1971, Bannerghatta Zoo Park began as a small refuge for injured animals. Over the decades, it expanded into a full-fledged zoological park, encompassing a biological reserve, a butterfly park, and a rescue center for captive animals. The zoo is part of the larger Bannerghatta National Park, which plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation and environmental education in the Bangalore area.
Why is Bannerghatta Zoo Park Famous?
Bannerghatta Zoo Park is famous for its diverse collection of wildlife and its unique safari experience, which allows visitors to see animals like tigers, lions, and bears roaming freely in large, natural enclosures. The park’s butterfly park is the first of its kind in India, attracting entomologists and nature lovers alike. Additionally, the zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and its role as a rescue center make it a standout attraction in Bangalore.
Mysore Zoo Vs Bannerghatta Zoo
Mysore Zoo and Bannerghatta Zoo each offer exceptional wildlife experiences but cater to different kinds of visitors. Mysore Zoo, established in 1892, is known for its well-maintained premises and vast collection of exotic species. In contrast, Bannerghatta Zoo offers a more natural and immersive experience, especially with its safari tours and conservation-focused programs. Here’s a comparison of the two:
| Feature | Mysore Zoo | Bannerghatta Zoo |
|---|---|---|
| Year Established | 1892 | 1971 |
| Area Size | 157 acres | 731 acres (includes the national park area) |
| Number of Animal Species | Over 168 species | Over 100 species |
| Total Number of Animals | Around 1,450 | Around 1,500 |
| Type of Enclosures | Well-maintained, traditional zoo enclosures | Larger, more naturalistic enclosures |
| Unique Attractions | Exotic species like Giraffes, Zebras, Rhinos | Safari with Tigers, Lions, and Bears |
| Safari Experience | No safari available | Yes, Jeep and Bus Safari available |
| Butterfly Park | No | Yes, India’s first butterfly park |
| Conservation Efforts | Active breeding programs for endangered species | Wildlife conservation and rescue center |
| Accessibility | Easily accessible within Mysore city limits | Located 22 km from Bangalore city |
| Visitor Experience | Ideal for families, more traditional zoo setup | Ideal for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers |
| Entry Fees | Approx. ₹80 for adults, ₹40 for children | Varies based on zoo or safari, starting at ₹80 |
| Timings | 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Ways to Book | Offline ticket counters, Online on zoo website | Offline ticket counters, Online on official website |
| Contact Details | Phone: +91 821 252 0302 | Phone: +91 80 2977 9999 |
Bangalore Zoo Animals
- Big Cats: Bengal Tigers, White Tigers, Lions, Leopards.
- Elephants: Asian Elephants.
- Reptiles: King Cobras, Indian Rock Pythons, Crocodiles.
- Birds: Peacocks, Hornbills, Parakeets.
- Others: Sloth Bears, Indian Gaurs, Deer species.
Bannerghatta Zoo Timings And Entry Fee
The zoo and safari timings differ slightly depending on the day of the week. The entry fee also varies based on whether you’re carrying a camera or planning to participate in the safari. Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees with and without a camera:
| Ticket Type | Adults (₹) | Children (₹) | With Camera (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zoo Entry | 80 | 40 | 125 |
| Safari (Jeep/Bus) | 250 | 125 | 350 |
| Combo (Zoo + Safari) | 330 | 165 | 450 |
| Butterfly Park (Optional) | 30 | 20 | 50 |
How to Go from Bangalore to Bannerghatta
Bannerghatta Zoo Park is well-connected to various parts of Bangalore, with several transportation options available. Here’s a table showing the different ways to reach the zoo from popular areas in the city:
| Starting Point | Mode of Transport | Approx. Time | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Majestic (City Center) | BMTC Bus (365, 366) | 1 hour 10 mins | 50 |
| Koramangala | Taxi/Auto | 45 mins | 300-400 (Taxi) |
| Indiranagar | Taxi/Auto | 1 hour | 350-450 (Taxi) |
| Electronic City | Private Vehicle | 40 mins | Fuel cost (approx. 200) |
| Whitefield | Taxi/Auto | 1.5 hours | 600-700 (Taxi) |
How Much Time It Would Take to Cover Bannerghatta Zoo Park
The amount of time required to cover Bannerghatta Zoo Park depends on whether you’re planning to visit just the zoo or participate in the safari as well. Below is a simple breakdown of the time estimates:
| Visit Type | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Zoo Only | 2-3 hours |
| Safari Only | 1.5-2 hours |
| Zoo + Safari (Full Visit) | 4-5 hours |
FAQs
Can we walk in Bannerghatta National Park?
Yes, certain areas of Bannerghatta National Park, including the zoo, are accessible by foot. However, for the safari, you will need to take a vehicle provided by the park.
Are there elephants in Bannerghatta National Park?
Yes, Bannerghatta Zoo Park houses a number of Asian elephants, which you can see in their dedicated enclosure or during the safari.
Is there a direct bus to Bannerghatta National Park?
Yes, there are direct buses to Bannerghatta National Park from various parts of Bangalore. BMTC buses frequently operate on this route.
Is safari available in Bannerghatta National Park?
Yes, Bannerghatta National Park offers a safari experience where you can see lions, tigers, and bears in their natural habitats.
Can we take food inside Bannerghatta National Park?
No, outside food is not allowed inside the park to ensure the safety and cleanliness of the environment.
Is photography allowed in Bannerghatta National Park?
Yes, photography is allowed, but there is an additional fee for carrying cameras.
How much time will it take to cover Bannerghatta National Park?
It takes approximately 3-4 hours to cover whole of Bannerghatta National Park.
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